A Mango in the Hand: A Story Told Through Proverbs

Francisco is finally old enough to journey to the mango grove all by himself to gather the mangoes for a special dinner. But bees swarm the fruit, and Francisco has trouble picking them from the tree. He returns to his father several times, and each time his father shares a different proverb to inspire Francisco to continue trying. Querer es poder. Where there's a will, there's a way! Finally, Francisco is able to gather some mangoes, and on his way home he stops to visit his uncle, grandmother, and aunt. Francisco shares his mangoes with them, and by the time he gets home he no longer has any! Es mejor dar que recibir. Sometimes it's better to give than to receive.

Luckily for Francisco, his generosity does not go unnoticed. Amor con amor se paga. Love is repaid with love.

Readers are sure to be charmed by this humorous story about problem solving and sharing. The book includes a glossary of Spanish words.

Praise for A Mango in the Hand
"A story told through proverbs could easily go terribly wrong, but this sweet tale succeeds beautifully. This smoothly written family story is filled with warmth and humor and incorporates a blending of well-placed proverbs in both Spanish and English to drive the story's themes. Digitally colored pencil-and-ink cartoon drawings reflect the lush greens of summertime and outdoor living in this intergenerational barrio." -Kirkus Reviews

Binding Type: Hardcover
Publisher: Harry N. Abrams
Published: 04/01/2011
ISBN: 9780810997349
Pages: 32
Weight: 1.12lbs
Size: 10.27h x 10.38w x 0.44d
Award: Parents Choice Awards (Spring) (2008-Up) - Approved

Review Citations: Kirkus Reviews 04/15/2011
Publishers Weekly 05/16/2011
School Library Journal 07/01/2011 pg. 77
Hornbook Guide to Children 07/01/2011 pg. 329 - Recommended, Satisfactory

Accelerated Reader Quiz #/Name: 143706 / Mango in the Hand: A Story Told Through Proverbs
Reading Level: 3.1 / Interest Level: Lower Grade / Point Value: 0.5